Officers got the call about 3:30 p.m. Police said Whitlock works security at the Walmart on the 7100 block of Raggard Road off Greenbelt Highway, but that he was not on duty, and was just shopping inside, at the time.

Police said he was told by Walmart employees that a woman had allegedly just stolen from the store and was outside in the parking lot. Police said Whitlock then went outside to check things out.

"When he got to that vehicle, allegedly that vehicle ran over his foot. At that time, his service weapon was drawn and a shot was fired that struck that individual in the arm and hand," said Dwight Mitchell, a Louisville Metro Police Department spokesman.

Police said the alleged female shoplifter drove herself to the hospital. Whitlock was taken there as well with a foot injury. Both are expected to be OK.

The LMPD Public Integrity Unit has opened an investigation into what happened, and will determine whether Whitlock was justified in firing at the woman.

"We're investigating the use of force side in this particular situation, and as we interview both of them and get a more definitive answer on what happened," Mitchell said.

Whitlock's powers as a constable have been questioned in the past. He is an elected official, but has law enforcement powers similar to a sheriff -- he can carry a gun and make arrests. But he has little training and virtually no official duties.

The name of the woman who was allegedly shoplifting has not been released, and no charges had been filed against her as of Wednesday night.

WLKY News attempted to contact Whitlock by phone, but our calls were not returned.

Whitlock is listed as the executive director of the Kentucky Constable Association. He first took office at the beginning of 2007, and was reelected in last year's general election. He is one of three constables in Jefferson County.

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